Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier, Historical theatre in 6th arrondissement of Paris, France.
The Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier stands at 21, rue du Vieux-Colombier in the 6th arrondissement. Its light stone facade carries a flat canopy with gold capital letters spelling the theatre's name, above which two storeys have tall windows with black wrought-iron balcony railings. The ground level is recessed behind dark grey metal-clad pillars, with glass doors and panels painted in broad vertical bands of deep red; a circular gold medallion is mounted left of the lettering.
Jacques Copeau founded the theatre in 1913 as a reaction against commercial venues, introducing experimental approaches to theatrical production in Paris. It quickly became a centre for innovation and new artistic directions.
Jacques Copeau took the name from the rue du Vieux-Colombier so the public could find the theatre easily. Its emblem, two doves, was modelled on a paving stone of the basilica of San Miniato al Monte in Florence. A Histoire de Paris panel outside quotes his aim: a popular theatre freed from commercialism, renewing stagecraft and putting the work and the actor first.
The theatre is located on rue du Vieux-Colombier and is accessible by public transport in the neighbourhood. Visitors should check the schedule in advance, as the programme changes regularly throughout the year.
Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophical play Huis Clos premiered here in 1944, becoming a turning point for modern French theatre and literature. This work established the venue as a space where groundbreaking ideas took shape on stage.
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